Carnosine is a synthetic peptide that is made to mimic the natural carnosine found in the muscle and brain tissues. It is a protein building block and is considered the most powerful antioxidant produced by the body. Lab-made Carnosine helps the skin fight oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, which are the key drivers of aging and environmental skin damage. It prevents skin sagging and wrinkles, leaving it with a youthful glow. Carnosine also soothes the skin, reducing redness and inflammation. Though less common in hair care, this ingredient can support scalp health. Carnosine appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder in its raw form and has the chemical formula C9H14N4O3.
Products with CARNOSINE
With samples available
L-Carnosine Powder
by BrightGene Health
ActiTide® SupraCarnosine
by Uniproma Chemical
- Original documents
What is CARNOSINE used for?
Carnosine is a high-performance anti-aging and protective peptide that stands out in premium skin care. It is found in anti-aging creams, serums, anti-pollution lotions, eye creams, calming gels, and brightening masks.
For skin: Carnosine is primarily known for its role in maintaining healthy and youthful skin. It protects the skin against free radical damage - responsible for premature wrinkles and dullness. It boosts firmness, elasticity, and smoothness in aging skin. Additionally, Carnosine contributes to a more even skin tone and improved radiance. In eye creams, this ingredient reduces crow’s feet and puffiness.
For hair: Carnosine is rarely used in haircare but is being explored in scalp serums and anti-aging hair products. It can fight oxidative damage that is believed to delay hair thinning and support a healthier scalp environment.
Origin
Carnosine is made by condensing two amino acids - β-Alanine and L-Histidine - using coupling agents. The resulting crude reaction mixture is purified to isolate high-purity Carnosine. The ingredient is then dried and preserved. Though Carnosine is also found in animal tissues, commercial-grade Carnosine is often lab-synthesized and vegan-friendly.
What does CARNOSINE do in a formulation?
SKIN CONDITIONING|
ANTIOXIDANT|
SOOTHING|
SMOOTHINGSafety Profile
Carnosine is very safe and well-tolerated in cosmetic products within the recommended usage concentrations of 0.05% - 2%. It has low risks of toxicity or irritation, even with long-term use. Further, Carnosine is non-comedogenic and is considered safe for use during pregnancy. Patch tests can be performed to test for individual sensitivities to products containing this ingredient.
CARNOSINE alternatives
CARNOSINE technical profile
| Property | Values |
Melting Point | 253°C |
pH | 5.5 - 7.0 |
Solubility | Soluble in water |
Viscosity | Low |
Formulations with CARNOSINE
Most popular
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Skin Care: Skin Protection from Light with KLK OLEO DavosLife E3
by KLK OLEO
- Sustainable option
- Original documents